Dayton Daily News

Wheels: An e-mail from B.W. says, “I have a 2001 Isuzu Rodeo 4-cylinder, 2-wheel drive that has 55,000 miles on it. We have a little problem when putting the Rodeo in a pull situation, like going up a hill or trying to pass someone — it skips! I have changed all the parts that I have been advised to and spent a lot of money on a fuel filter, spark plugs, wires, EGR valve, coil pack, air flow sensor, timing idle pulley and timing belt. Do you have any clue as to what could cause this problem?”

Halderman: By “skipping,” I am going to assume you mean that the engine misses as if it is not operating on all cylinders. Instead of replacing parts, I would have suggested that this problem be diagnosed to help pin down the problem before you spent a lot of money. For example, if there are some diagnostic trouble codes, this would lead to finding a problem. Even if no codes are set, a professional service technician would check fuel pressure and volume, plus look carefully at the scan tool data when the problem occurs to help pinpoint the problem.

For example, the computer uses the information from the oxygen sensor to determine if any corrections are needed. These corrections are called fuel trim, and by looking at these numbers, a technician can determine if the problem is a lack of fuel or some other problem. For example, the fuel trim should be within 10 percent. Engine missing can also be caused by a weak ignition system or a weak signal from the crankshaft position sensor. To help avoid spending more money on parts, I think it would be money well spent to have a professional look at the problem.

Wheels: An e-mail from Dr. P. asks, “The sideview mirrors used to tilt down when I placed the gear selector into Reverse. I like this feature because it helps me see the curb when backing. Lately, the mirrors have stopped tilting downward. I checked the fuses and they are all OK. Do you think I need to take it to a shop? Any ideas would be appreciated.”

Halderman: I doubt that there is a serious problem. This feature, like many of today’s features, depends on certain conditions to function. For example, if the sideview mirror switch is placed in the left or right position, rather than in the middle, the tilt down function is often overridden.

Before asking a professional to look at the problem, check the position of the mirror selection switch. If it is in the left or right side position, try moving it to the middle position to see if the tilt function works. If it is in the middle, try placing it in the left or right side position.

James D. Halderman is an ASE-certified master technician, a member of the Society of Automotive Engineers and the author of 12 textbooks. Submit your automotive care questions to Halderman via e-mail at jhalderman2@juno.com, or write him in care of: Wheels, Marketing Publications Department, Dayton Daily News, 45 S. Ludlow St., Dayton OH 45402.